Long Beach is gearing up to be quite the cultural hotspot during the 2028 Olympic Games, with the addition of a new national hospitality house for Team Ireland. As announced in Mayor Rex Richardson's State of the City address, which was covered by the City of Long Beach, Long Beach will welcome fans and athletes alike to Team Ireland House at Ovation Square, located on Pine Avenue, and is poised to feature a mix of cultural programming, events, and exhibitions, among other attractions.
Leveraging its central location to the upcoming Games and vibrant downtown district, Long Beach is setting the stage for a unique Olympic and community experience. According to a statement obtained by the City of Long Beach, Mayor Richardson expressed pride in showcasing the city's attractions through the new Irish House: "We are proud to welcome the Team Ireland House for the 2028 Games and look forward to seeing this cultural space come alive with community connection, celebration and shared experiences for people of all ages." Working closely with the Olympic Federation of Ireland, Long Beach seeks to be more than just a destination; it's angling to be an integral part of the larger Olympic narrative.
The Team Ireland House is expected to include live entertainment and retail opportunities while playing host to athlete and family gatherings and sponsor activations. In an effort to reach younger generations, the Olympic Federation of Ireland plans to utilize its "Dare to Believe" program, according to a City of Long Beach press release.
With a view to the future legacy of the Games, First District Councilwoman Mary Zendejas emphasized the importance of lasting impact and community building, telling the City of Long Beach, "The Ireland Team House will transform the 2028 Games from something people simply watch into something they truly experience." It's a sentiment that not only brings anticipation but also highlights Long Beach's commitment to meaningful participation in the Olympic spirit.
This is not a one-off move for Long Beach; the city has already been selected to host two other Team Houses—making it the first in the region to boast such a claim. Long Beach's offerings have resonated well with national committees, symbolized by the Hellenic Olympic Committee and the National Olympic Committee of Denmark choosing it for their respective hospitality houses. Property owners in Long Beach interested in participating in the Games are being encouraged to engage with the City's online interest form to offer their spaces for various activations.
With preparations for the Olympic Games in full swing, Long Beach appears ready to embrace its role as a Venue City. It's slated to host a hefty number of events for both the Olympics and Paralympics, promising visitors and residents an up-close experience with one of the world's largest sporting events. More details are set to emerge as the City of Long Beach continues its Olympic planning and further develops its vision for celebrating cultures and creating connections both during and after the LA28 Games.
